Bering Sea Crab Fisherman’s Tour from Ketchikan

If you’re visiting Ketchikan and looking for a deep, authentic glimpse into Alaska’s rugged fishing life, the Bering Sea Crab Fisherman’s Tour offers a memorable three-hour ride aboard the famous Aleutian Ballad. Inspired by the TV hit “Deadliest Catch,” this tour promises excitement, education, and a hefty dose of sea lore. Expect a boat full of lively stories, a chance to see real marine creatures, and stunning views of the Inside Passage.

One thing to consider: this tour primarily stays in protected waters near Ketchikan’s coastline, so if you’re seeking open-ocean adventure or the rough Bering Sea itself, this might not be the experience for you. It’s especially suited for families, wildlife lovers, and those with a curiosity for Alaska’s fishing heritage.

What we love about this experience? First, the genuine stories from crew members who’ve actually lived the rugged, rewarding life of commercial fishermen. Second, the chance to see a variety of sea creatures—from king crabs to eagles—up close and even touch some in the on-board tanks. A possible drawback is the open-air deck can get chilly, so dressing in layers is wise. Still, that does nothing to diminish the overall authentic charm and educational value.

Highlights

• Travel through the Inside Passage aboard the historic Aleutian Ballad
• Observe long-line barrel pots and massive king crab traps being prepared and hauled out
• Get close-up views of various marine creatures, including king crabs, prawns, and rockfish
• Hear tales and insights straight from seasoned fishermen about their work and Alaska’s wild waters
• Spot eagles, sea lions, whales, and porpoises along the way
• Touch and snap photos of the catch in tanks before it’s carefully released

A Detailed Look at the Experience

The adventure begins at Berth 3509 Water St, Ketchikan, where you’ll check in well before your scheduled departure—be sure you’re there 15 minutes early. The watercraft, the 107-foot Aleutian Ballad, is an impressive vessel that has gained fame through the harsh and spectacular stories from “Deadliest Catch,” including surviving a 60-foot swell. For many, knowing they’ve boarded a boat with this history adds a dash of excitement.

Once onboard, there are options for seating: the open-air upper deck, where the breeze and views are best, or the heated lower deck with its comfortable, enclosed amphitheater. This thoughtful setting means you can enjoy the scenery and stories regardless of weather, although keeping warm with provided hot chocolate, coffee, or tea is recommended, especially for colder days.

As the boat belles forward, the crew shares the history of the vessel and what it’s like doing bitterly cold, sometimes perilous, work as a commercial fisherman in Alaska. The crew loves sharing tales, and their enthusiasm is infectious, making it more than a passive ride. You’ll find yourself drawn into stories about life at sea, fishing techniques, and the resilience needed to work in such wild waters.

While traversing the Inside Passage, the crew points out the abundant beauty of the region: soaring bald eagles, playful sea lions, and passing whales if you’re lucky, plus porpoises that dart through the water. Looking out for birds and marine mammals adds an extra layer of fascination.

Reaching the fishing grounds, the action kicks up a notch. You watch as the crew bait the gear with salmon and squid, then toss out enormous long-line barrel pots containing hundreds of lbs of king crab—some weighing up to 700 pounds. The team’s expertise makes the fishing process a spectacle in itself: a mix of physical work and significant patience. Appreciation for their skill and understanding increases when you see the massive crab haul—alive, writhing, and ready for sorting.

Highlights include observing king crabs, box crabs, prawns, rockfish, speaker eel, and other beautiful marine critters. The crew sorts through the catch, sometimes placing it in tanks for photos and touching (your chance to get hands-on with your favorite sea animals before they go back). Their passion for the environment is evident—they haul prawn pots with a variety of critters but do not fish without proper permits, emphasizing their commitment to sustainable practices.

The experience is designed to maximize education and entertainment. From humorous stories about their rough seas, shared with tweets like, “the boat was hit by a 60-foot swell and survived,” to the awe-inspiring close-ups of eagles snatching fish from the water, there’s never a dull moment.

Ending back at the dock, you’ll appreciate the relaxed pace, having spent time learning about fishing techniques, marine ecosystem, and the challenges faced by Alaska’s fishermen. The tour’s combination of educational content, stunning vistas, and lively stories makes it a value-packed choice for most travelers.

What Past Travelers Say

Reviews speak to this tour’s quality—an average score of 4.9 out of 5 from over 600 travelers. Many highlight the friendly, knowledgeable crew and the fun, authentic atmosphere. Comments like “You learn about the efforts and risks taken by fishermen” and “The crew was super friendly and showed us many different things they caught in the Bering Sea” underscore how genuine and informative this shipboard experience really is.

The sighting of eagles, especially, gets rave reviews. One traveler said, “Watching eagles fly down and pick fish right out of the water was unforgettable.” Many mention the professionalism and entertainment value stemming from the crew’s stories. And a few say, “This was one of their favorites,” emphasizing the tour’s ability to create lasting memories.

On the flip side, some reviews note less-than-ideal weather conditions, such as feeling cold or being in some cases, frustrated by seating arrangements on especially chilly days. But this exemplifies an important point—this tour is weather-dependent like all boat trips, so dressing in layers and being flexible enhances your experience.

Price and Value

At $236 per person, this tour may seem on the higher end in terms of cost, but many travelers agree that it’s worth sticking to their budget for the exceptional value provided. You’re not just paying for the 3-hour boat ride—it’s an educational, entertaining, and visually stunning introduction to Alaska’s working maritime world, combined with interactive opportunities like touching the catch and taking photos.

Compared to other activities in the region, it stands out for its authentic storytelling, boat history, and sightings of marine life—elements that cost nothing extra after the initial investment. Several reviews praise the generous accessibility and the friendliness of the crew, making it suitable for families and solo travelers alike.

The Itinerary in Detail: An Authentic Glimpse

Your adventure begins with a short walk from any downtown hotel or cruise pier—no need for additional transportation. The check-in process is straightforward, and arriving 15 minutes early ensures smooth boarding. Once aboard, the crew introduces you to the Aleutian Ballad, an vessel steeped in maritime legend.

The vessel sets sail through Annette Bay, a calm stretch within the Inside Passage—perfect water for this type of activity. Early on, the crew shares amusing anecdotes about the ship’s history, including its near-miss with a 60-foot swell—a story that highlights the risks of steep, unpredictable seas.

While cruising, you’ll enjoy panoramic views and must keep your camera ready for wildlife: especially bald eagles perched in trees, soaring overhead, or catching fish. In reviews, many guests mention the extraordinary eagle sightings, sometimes observing dozens at a time.

The real action begins at the fishing grounds. Demonstrations of baiting the long-line barrel pots provide insights into the meticulous process of commercial crabbing—just like the crews featured on TV. The palpable size and weight of some pots can be startling when hauled on deck, often filled with big king crabs, prawns, and other sea creatures in tanks.

Everyone gets an up-close view. Guests frequently comment on how the crew is eager to share stories about these animals. Several reviews mention the excitement of touching the live catch or snapping photos of the colorful marine life—ocean critters that you might otherwise never see.

Once the crew retrieves the traps and sorts the catch, your group witnesses how king crabs, box crabs, and other specimens are prepared for study or release. The crew sometimes provides live animal tanks onboard, letting guests touch a wolf eel or prawn, adding an interactive, tactile feel to the trip.

After plenty of photos and stories, the trip wraps up with the crew stowing gear and heading back to port. The return sail offers opportunities for relaxed sightseeing and reflection on everything you’ve learned about Alaska’s fishing industry, marine ecology, and the resilience of the men and women who work these waters.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is especially suited for travelers who enjoy being outdoors, are eager to learn about Alaska’s maritime traditions, and want a family-friendly activity with plenty of wildlife sightings. It’s perfect for those who appreciate stories, marine animals, and stunning bay views.

The moderate pace and sheltered waters also make it great for those concerned about seasickness, as the tour stays in calmer areas. Plus, those interested in conservation and sustainable fishing practices will appreciate the crew’s emphasis on resource protection and responsible operations.

It’s less ideal for travelers seeking thrill-seeking at open-ocean depths or those unwilling to bundle up—remember, FOUR layers of clothing are often necessary in these cooler climes.

Final Thoughts

The Bering Sea Crab Fisherman’s Tour from Ketchikan offers a uniquely authentic peek into Alaska’s rugged fishing culture. The combination of informative storytelling, marine wildlife viewing, and hands-on experiences makes it a top-rated activity cherished by many travelers. For an accessible, educational, and visually stunning snapshot of the Alaskan wilderness, it’s hard to beat this trip.

If you’re the type who enjoys a good story, loves nature, and is curious about the people behind Alaska’s legendary fishing industry, this tour will definitely leave you with a genuine appreciation of life at sea—plus a few unforgettable wildlife sightings to boot.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 5 years, making it a family-friendly activity. Kids will enjoy the all-age experience of touching sea creatures and spotting bald eagles.

Do I need to worry about seasickness?
Not much. Since the tour stays within the calm, protected waters of the Inside Passage, large waves and rough seas are unlikely. However, dressing in layers and being prepared is always a good idea.

Are food and drinks included?
No, but they are available for purchase onboard. You can also bring your own snacks, but there are no meal options—just beverages like coffee, tea, and hot chocolate.

Do I need to bring my own rain gear?
Raincoats and ponchos are provided if needed, but bringing your own waterproof gear helps stay dry and comfortable, especially on windier days.

Will I see whales or more wildlife?
While wildlife sightings depend on the day, several reviews mention seeing eagles, whales, and porpoises during the cruise. Keep your camera handy.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts about 3 hours, giving you a solid introduction to crab fishing and marine life without taking up your whole day.

Where do I meet the boat?
The tour departs from Berth 3509 Water St, Ketchikan, and no additional transport is necessary—it’s within walking distance from most hotels and cruise docks.

In the end, this tour offers a well-rounded, genuine experience that honors Alaska’s daily life on the water. Weather permitting, you’ll leave with stories to tell and a deeper connection to this wild landscape.